Stop being afraid

Stop being afraid right now.

Fear, in my opinion, is one of the worst things in life. Consider all of the negative effects that fear has on your life. Consider all of the decisions you've made or avoided in your life as a result of fear. Consider the chances you don't take or the connections you don't pursue because you're afraid. Take a careful look at the anxieties you have in your life and try to face them front on until they are no longer fears.

Identifying specific anxieties was the first step in overcoming my fears in my own life. I set aside a few hours to write down everything I was terrified of. I included everything from my most terrifying concerns to the tiniest, most inconsequential fears I had. I would strongly advise you to do the same. It may appear to be an odd undertaking, but consider the freedom you would have if you learn to overcome your worries.

As I wrote, I was struck by how many things were causing me anxiety and influencing my life. My fear of flying was one of the fears that was having the largest impact on my life. I knew I was frightened of flying, and I knew a lot of other people who were, but I had never assessed the cost of that dread in my life. Only after I sat down and was completely honest with myself did I realise how much my fear of flying had kept me from travelling. Because of my phobia, I had missed out on a class reunion, a vacation to Europe with my son, and a slew of other possibilities.

As I totaled up all the instances that fear had robbed me of life and possibilities, the process of acknowledging my anxieties became aggravating and maddening to me. Can you think of a time when fear has hampered or prevented you from enjoying your best life? If this is the case, you must make a concerted effort to overcome your concerns. If any of your worries are easily overcomeable, I recommend that you begin doing what it takes to conquer them today.

Perhaps you're terrified of being alone for too long. While this is a common fear that many people have, it can detract from the comfort and relaxation that alone time can provide. I recommend gradually increasing your time alone until you can comfortably tolerate a few hours or even a day without the companionship of people. Try reading a book, working in your garden, or engaging in another enjoyable pastime. What a sense of liberation you'll feel if you learn to be alone.

My advise to you is simple: get rid of your fear right now. Make every effort to avoid allowing fear to govern your life. The less fear influences you, the happier and more free you will be.